Tulum
Tulum sits on a Caribbean cliff just a short walk from the ancient Maya ruins that overlook the sea, a setting that has turned the former fishing village into a focal point for travelers seeking both beach and history. The town lies in the state of Quintana Roo on Mexico’s eastern coast, and its permanent population reached 46,721 in the 2020 census as new residential projects spread into the surrounding jungle. Since the early 1990s, when only a few modest shops and beach cabanas served the nearby archaeological site, tourism has expanded dramatically, reshaping the downtown area with a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.
Visitors can wander along the shoreline and then head inland to explore the ruins, which sit only about two kilometres from the town centre. The jungle fringe that borders the downtown core now hosts a range of accommodations, from vacation rentals and small hotels to hostels that cater to backpackers and families alike. Restaurants and bars line the streets, while grocery stores, boutiques, bicycle rentals, gyms, and internet cafés provide everyday comforts. Tour operators offer excursions to the coastal sites, and Spanish language schools attract learners who want to immerse themselves in the local culture.
The recent inauguration of Tulum International Airport on 1 December 2023, officiated by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, adds a new gateway for arrivals, reinforcing the town’s evolution from a quiet coastal settlement to a bustling hub of Caribbean tourism. This blend of ancient ruins, jungle‑bordered development, and modern connectivity defines the unique character of Tulum, Mexico.
Experiences in Tulum
Explore hand-picked Tulum tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Where to stay in Tulum
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Tulum accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Casa Don Diego
A rooftop terrace overlooking garden grounds forms the center of Casa Don Diego, a 27-room hotel in Tulum, Mexico. Pets stay free of charge at the property, where express check-in and check-out services simplify guest arrivals.
Kin Ha Tulum
A rooftop terrace looks out across town from Kin Ha Tulum, a 20-room hotel in central Tulum, Mexico. Staying here involves specific house policies: card payments are required as cash is unaccepted, no alcohol is sold or provided, and events, pets, and service animals are strictly forbidden. Unregistered visitors cannot enter the guest quarters.
Tulum itineraries
Explore hand-picked Tulum itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
8 days · Playa del Carmen, Tulum
Couple
Enjoy Riviera Maya’s beaches and culture, visit Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres, explore Tulum’s ruins, and adventure in Sian Ka’an and Rio Secreto.
Mexico
